Mount Lofty House is celebrating an exciting milestone this summer, as it approaches 40 years of hotel operations on February 12th. To honour the occasion, the historic adults-only retreat is unveiling its Iconic 40th Escape, a handpicked two-night experience designed to indulge every sense while paying tribute to four decades of unforgettable stays, stories and celebrations.
The Iconic 40th Escape has been designed to celebrate everything the property represents. The two-night package includes 40 signature inclusions spanning dining, spa and estate experiences. Whether you choose a generous dining credit and spa indulgence, or night-time turndown treats and a relaxed late departure, the package encourages guests to savour every moment.
The story of Mount Lofty House goes well beyond its hotel years. Originally built in 1852 as a summer house by Arthur and Martha Hardy, the estate quickly became known for its lavish parties and stunning views from Adelaide’s highest summit. That history was heartbreakingly interrupted when the property was destroyed in the Ash Wednesday fires of 1983.
Only three years later, the house was rebuilt and reborn as an intimate eight-room luxury hotel, opening its doors on February 12th, 1986. Surrounded by national parkland, it offered guests a rare chance to escape the hustle and bustle while remaining so close to the city.
A new chapter began in 2009 when South Australian hotelier David Horbelt acquired the property from Accor Hotels Group, alongside business partner Malcolm Bean. With a vision to transform Mount Lofty House into a world-class tourism destination, the duo focused on preserving the character and charm of the original house while taking the guest experience to the next level through exceptional service and thoughtful luxury.
“Mount Lofty House is more than a hotel – it is a living piece of South Australian history,” shared David. “From its origins in 1852, through the devastation of Ash Wednesday, to its rebirth in 1986 and its evolution into a luxury estate, this milestone celebrates not just 40 years of hospitality, but the heart, perseverance and passion of our team and community.”
Today, Mount Lofty House is a standout luxury destination, encompassing the historic house itself, the acclaimed Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant and the broader Mount Lofty Estate. Highlights include the three-hatted Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant, a 175-year-old cellar with more than 1,300 wine labels, a serene day spa and beautiful estate gardens.
“Proudly South Australian family-owned and operated, Mount Lofty House continues to welcome travellers from around the world, offering an intimate retreat high above the Piccadilly Valley, where heritage, nature and contemporary luxury converge.”
Just 20 minutes from Adelaide’s CBD and 30 minutes from Adelaide Airport, Mount Lofty House continues to draw travellers from around the world while remaining proudly South Australian owned and operated. As part of the Australian Bespoke Collective, alongside Sequoia Lodge and The Reef House Adults Retreat, it sits among the country’s most awarded and admired luxury escapes.
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